The God of Small Things: Themes

Section 1: Love and Sexuality

Forbidden Love: In ‘The God of Small Things’, Arundhati Roy explores the concept of forbidden love by portraying the relationship between Ammu and Velutha, crossing social and caste boundaries. This theme criticises societal norms and the destructive power of prejudice.
Innocent Love: Contrast is made with the innocent, nearly inseparable love between the twins, Estha and Rahel. Their intimacy might be seen as taboo by society’s standards, exemplified in their adult reunion. This theme signifies how love can persist against all odds and societal pressures.

Caste Discrimination: Velutha’s character is emblematic of systemic oppression in the caste system, illustrated most explicitly through his tragic end because of a love that society deemed ‘unnatural’.
Social Hierarchies: The significance of social stature and class separation is prevalent throughout the novel, exacerbating the family’s downfall. Characters like Baby Kochamma and Chacko show privileged stances, highlighting the injustice of class divisions.

British Influence: The lingering effects of colonial rule in India are depicted through Sophie Mol’s character. Her elevated status in comparison to her Indian cousins demonstrates the pervading Eurocentric values and the destructive influence of British colonialism.
Radical Politics: The narrative explores Marxist themes, introducing the political unrest of the time. Key political movements, like the rise of the Communist party in Kerala, create a backdrop for the societal transformations seen in the novel.

Women’s Agency: Ammu’s character is a central figure portraying desire for autonomy and liberation against the conventional roles of women. Her doomed affair signifies the patriarchal society’s ruthless response to female rebellion.
Gender Stereotypes: The book presents several characters that defy traditional gender roles, like Rahel’s non-conformism and Velutha’s sensitive nature. These instances question the societal norms, encouraging a re-evaluation of gender identities.

Childhood Trauma: Estha and Rahel’s lives are deeply marked by childhood tragedy, shaping them into dysfunctional adults. Their silent sufferings illustrate the devastating effects of trauma on children.
Loss of Innocence: The recurring theme of lost innocence and grief symbolizes the irreversible effects of tragic events. Sophie Mol’s death, among other catastrophes, leads to the fracturing of the family and the loss of the twins’ childhood innocence.